getcrafty :: popular topics :: vintage :: retro

View entire thread: Made two beaded ball necklaces.

Posted by beadangel on 2005-12-12 07:02:38      Post Subject: Made two beaded ball necklaces.



Hi all,

I made two beaded ball necklaces for a retro party few weeks ago, see the photos at: http://www.beadjewelrymaking.com/beaded_necklaces.html The bottom two photos - you can click to enlarge each photo.

Thanks for looking!

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View entire thread: Vintage Lucys, Unique hip items with a vintage flair!

Posted by vintage lucys on 2005-06-26 02:32:12      Post Subject: Vintage Lucys, Unique hip items with a vintage flair!

Hi,
I would like to introduce my site to your forum. If you like vintage, punk or rockabilly then you are going to love our stuff. We carry retro baby blankets, burprags & bibs, vintage furniture and accessoriers and funky hip baby clothing. Check us out. www.vintagelucys.com

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View entire thread: Church of Craft in Portland, OR - May Meeting!

Posted by SisterDG on 2006-05-06 09:34:25      Post Subject: Church of Craft in Portland, OR - May Meeting!

The May Church of Craft meeting will be Sunday, May 21st. Usual time, 11:30 - 2:30, and usual place: Rimsky-Korsacoffee House, 707 SE 12th (at Alder). If you're forwarding this to someone who's never been, it's the big red house at the corner of SE 12th and Alder. There is no sign out front.

Our craft class for May: Bead and Wire Jewelry. It's a really fun, simple technique that lends itself well to bracelets, pendants, and pins. You can make it as glam, funky, or retro as you like.

Curious? Here's a photo of what I'm talking about:

http://static.flickr.com/49/140278201_9f2d12f7f9_o.jpg

If you'd like to participate in the class, please email for a supply list.

Church of Craft is a nondenominational group of people who love to make stuff. Learn more at www.churchofcraft.org.

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View entire thread: Blogspot to Promote!

Posted by octavine illustration on 2008-01-13 22:21:51      Post Subject: Blogspot to Promote!

hello all! i just began a blog!

http://octavineillustration.blogspot.com

here's a bit about me:

Welcome to Octavine Illustration! My goal is to construct a world of retro images based on the classic Art Deco form.

I garner inspiration from the sensuous lines of Deco haute couture, classic silhouettes of sleek sophistication. Imagine the ‘30s era of Hollywood beauty queens, the Chrysler Building and the Duesenberg. Style and craftsmanship reigned supreme, nurturing the creation of a product solely for its beauty. That is Octavine Illustration.

With gouache as my medium, I craft fonts and images which are completely hand-wrought. My images are then transferred to silk-screens to produce the bold colors you see in my art on cloth or paper. I do not use digital technology to alter my images in any way. As a result, my creativity is not bound by a machine.

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View entire thread: AD: Julie's Jangles jewelry

Posted by sweet_tooth on 2007-04-26 09:53:49      Post Subject: AD: Julie's Jangles jewelry

Hi everyone!

I've been crafting for years now, but recently discovered my love of jewelry design, and I've run away with it! I use mostly vintage components, like pendants, charms, and beads, to create fun, pretty jewelry with a retro twist.
I just got my website up and running and want to get the word out. I am still working out some technical issues, ie. getting brighter, clearer pictures. Also, although I love the look of my website, I designed it on the iWeb program (for Macs), and can't integrate a shopping cart function. Therefore, I've set it up so the "buy" button e-mails me with the item the customer wants to buy, to which I reply with a Paypal invoice. The customer can then proceed to pay with credit card via Paypal. This isn't a favorable way for me be set up, but I really wanted to get my jewelry out there so I can sell some things and put money into a better website. I'm going to be doing craft fairs this summer, also.
Any feedback would be welcome and appreciated, be it on my jewelry and the site!

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View entire thread: Mafia Made Holiday Craftacular!

Posted by Petaluma Craft Mafia on 2008-11-23 17:44:06      Post Subject: Mafia Made Holiday Craftacular!

Dreams of holiday tinsel and Sugar Plum fairies waltzing through your head? Have you ever wanted to meet Bumble the abominable snowman from "Rudolph the Red nosed Reindeer?" Stir that together with a sprinkle of Nightmare before Christmas and you have Mafia Made HOLIDAY CRAFTACULAR! - http://www.holidaycraftacular.com. You can bet your candy-cane striped toe socks, we've got another crazy show planned!

The Petaluma Craft Mafia is pleased to announce our first annual holiday show, "Mafia Made HOLIDAY CRAFTACULAR" to debut on Saturday, December 13th from eleven to five at the Petaluma Veteran's Hall.

Our first show CRAFTALUMA was such a success, we keep getting requests for when we would have another show, so we decided to put together a holiday show with some of the most talented DIY'ers, crafty crafters and kick-ass artisans we could assemble - that includes you!

We will have plenty of crafty how-to demos from many of our inspiring and talented vendors. Mojo talented and local live entertainment from the ever-fresh and pretty dang crafty themselves, Bluebellies and adorable Gabby LaLa. You'll be thrilled to know that the Petaluma Craft Mafia plans to have another crafty raffle. **Vendors, (please send us your swag and any goodies you would love some lucky person to have to promote your wares and your crafty company). Swag bags to the first 50 folks through the door. Our theme is a Retro Winter Wonderland with a hint of kitsch and a bit of underground fantasical Holiday flavor going on -remember, this ain't your dear granny's craft show. Bumble the Abominable snow man may drop by and take pictures with the young folk...and you never know who else....

Get your Holiday Shopping done in one fell swoop, and come away inspired by our crafty cast of characters this year at Mafia Made HOLIDAY CRAFTACULAR.


** VENDORS: Vendors, applications are now available, Send me an e-mail (here or at cheryl@petalumacraftmafia.com) and I can forward you an application. FYI: This show is for Crafty, DIY, craft and art, items only, no re-sale or multi-level marketing items, thank you!
** SPONSORS: Please contact cheryl@petalumacraftmafia.com if you are interested in sponsorship and/demo table.

Show attendees and adoring public: We heart you! Thanks for coming out to support your crafty famiglia and their friends at CRAFTALUMA, and making our first show such a success. We couldn't have done it without you!

HOLIDAY CRAFTACULAR starts at noon and admission is 2 dollars. You will get a raffle ticket for a chance to win one of our awesome crafty prizes, and if you bring a toy for our "Toys for Tots" you will automatically get another chance at the raffle. Children under 16 are free. Crafto'licious swag bags for the first 100 folks through the door!

Come on down and meet Petaluma's Crafty famiglia, we'll have a jolly 'ol tinse'licious time!

Cheers,

Cheryl and the PCM


"Mafia Made" HOLIDAY CRAFTACULAR
Saturday, 11-5 December 13th, 2008
Petaluma Veteran's Memorial Hall
1094 Petaluma Boulevard South
Petaluma, CA 94952



http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm179/Moxieville/holidaygetawayposter-2-1.jpg

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View entire thread: Calling ALL designers, stylists! SWAP meet, NLP!

Posted by SisterGoldenHair on 2004-05-22 14:20:51      Post Subject: Calling ALL designers, stylists! SWAP meet, NLP!

please repost. Your friends will really thank you for it.




ATTN: hip, young, fashion savvy designers, stylists, wardrobe people...

Hello!

Next Saturday, May 29th at Le Chic Boutique (6432 Santa Monica Blvd. @ Cole) we are having our first event! I know this isn't a lot of time to prepare, but we are too excited to wait! We are hoping to make this a monthly event with rotating designers, so lets start this off right!

Space is limited so hurry and sign up to be considered. We are looking for
young, hip, fashion forward individuals who have designs to sell. Jewelry
designers, vintage buyers/sellers, stylists with inventory are welcome as
well. This is going to be a great event, at a great space, with music,
refreshments and of course awesome designs by awesome people.

Forty dollars buys you a space at the sale. (Main area Approx. 16' wide X 36' long, plus extra small side area, 14' celings) The size of your space will be determined once all designers are selected. Again, there is VERY limited space, so please email me ONLY if you are SERIOUS about this. $40 gets you a space, and the money is to be paid BEFORE the day of the event to make sure your spot is secured. You can pay in cash if you visit Apollo Starr at the store (6432 Santa Monica Blvd. Los Angeles, CA. 90038, call 323-461-STAR) You can charge whatever you like for your designs, and all the money is yours to keep! If you need to rent a table, or a rolling rack, there is a rental place next door, that charges about $5-10, you can email me for details about rentals. Otherwise, you must supply your own fixtures. Also, the sale will run from 10-6pm, on Saturday, so be prepared to work it!

So please, if you have a website, or some pictures of your work, email them
to me at once to be considered. We are trying to create a similar style/feel to that of Le Chic Boutique. 50's, 60's, 70's, 80's, retro, young, funky, hip,
indie, urban, underground, chic, hipster, mod, etc. type designs. When emailing pictures, remember to keep them small, and virus free. Please also include a detailed description of your items/style of your designs. Again, SPACE IS LIMITED so please email me soon. We have to get the ball rolling, the sale is NEXT SATURDAY!

In addition, please let me know approximately how much space you will need.
For example, I know jewelry designers will need much less space than
clothing designers. Clothing designers are encouraged to keep designs to
under 2 rolling racks per person, and jewelry designers could possibly share a
table to cut costs and save space.

This is a great opportunity for new/up and coming/ young designers to get their designs out to the people! If all goes well this will be a huge success and will continue on a montly basis!

so get going!

spread the good word!

FOR PICTURES OF LE CHIC BOUTIQUE: (cut & paste if link doesn't work)
http://img65.photobucket.com/albums/v197/apollostarr/Le%20Chic%20Boutique/

FOR PICTURES OF ULTRASTAR STUDIO: (where the even will take place)
http://img65.photobucket.com/albums/v197/apollostarr/Ultrastar%20Studio/

Both locations are next door to each other.
6432 Santa Monica Blvd. Los Angeles, CA. 90038
323-461-STAR


email me:strawberryfieldsforever79@hotmail.com

- - - - - - -

Brought to you by Mama Stone Vintage, Apollo Starr/Le Chic Boutique/UltraStar Studio, and the letter R.

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View entire thread: retro jewelry

Posted by fats on 2007-03-15 15:02:02      Post Subject: retro jewelry

i wanted to make some retro jewelry , but i wasnt sure how. i was considering using monopoly pieces..
i also have old model car pieces lying around which would be cool too..
but other than that,
any one have any ideas

on any retro jewelry that are not too difficult to make?



thanks :)

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View entire thread: retro jewelry

Posted by mrs_stroozi on 2007-03-15 15:59:26      Post Subject:

What do you mean by retro jewelry? Do you have some pics as examples?

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View entire thread: Marilyn Monroe Stencil?! HELP!

Posted by Miru on 2005-05-30 16:59:22      Post Subject:

Hey Retro! I found a site about making your own Marilyn stencils. Hope it helps. http://www.geocities.com/ts_specsarchives/monroestencil.html

Miru

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View entire thread: Marilyn Monroe Stencil?! HELP!

Posted by June_Baby12 on 2005-05-30 16:34:27      Post Subject: Marilyn Monroe Stencil?! HELP!

Hey, i really wanted to find a stencil of Marilyn Monroe like the one on this hot topic shirt: http://www.hottopic.com/store/product.asp?LS=0&ITEM=242670 I guess i could buy it, but you know. Do you guys have any or know where i can find one? Thanks in advance!

*Retro_Turtle13*

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View entire thread: teen bedroom

Posted by xbloodyyromancee on 2004-07-13 00:10:50      Post Subject: teen bedroom

hi. i am a teenager who loves this site. my friend and i are re-decorating our rooms, and we would like to know some good teen bedroom crafts and such. ABout Us: we are punky/retro teens, and love the retro bedroom look. (not the dorky 60's tye-dye stuff) help us please.

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View entire thread: I have these craft books on my wish list...

Posted by tootsiecat on 2005-02-10 09:33:44      Post Subject: I have these craft books on my wish list...

Artists Journals and Sketchbooks: Exploring and Creating Personal Pages by Lynne Perrella

Making Shadow Boxes and Shrines by Kathy Cano-Murillo


Last-Minute Knitted Gifts by Joelle Hoverson


Making Handbags: Retro, Chic, Luxurious by Ellen Goldstein-Lynch

Collage Discovery Workshop: Make Your Own Collage Creations Using Vintage Photos, Found Objects and Ephemera by Claudine Hellmuth

Felted Knits by Beverly Galeskas

Collage for the Soul: Expressing Hopes and Dreams Through Art by Holly Harrison

I don't want all of the collage books, maybe just one.
I've seen the Last Minute Knitted Gifts mentioned in the forums before.
Has anyone read or used any of the other books?
Does anyone want to tell me their absolute favorite craft or inspirational books? I'd love to hear your thoughts.

I just ordered hey day, living out loud, and wild with a glue gun. : )

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View entire thread: Craft Congress 2007 is here!

Posted by kkofibru on 2007-03-05 11:43:57      Post Subject: Craft Congress 2007 is here!

Local Contact: Kpoene' Kofi-Bruce 347-729-4326 or kkofibru@gmail.com
Pittsburgh, Pa. Contact: Gloria Forouzan, 412.583.8757 or gtforouzan@gmail.com

CRAFT CONGRESS IS IN SESSION

Indie/diy craft movement organizers holding first – ever worldwide conference

Craft Congress, the first-ever gathering of the diy/indie craft movement's leaders will be
held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on March 31 and April 1, 2007. The goal is to build
connections between the movement's organizers who have been primarily working in their
communities; Craft Congress attendees will share knowledge and experience, creating a
network and fostering the movement's growth.

Fifty participants from across the U.S., Canada, (and one from England), will attend this
gathering of leaders in the increasingly popular craft subculture. Many attendees will stay
in the homes of Pittsburgh hosts.

Local designer and organizer, Kpoene' Kofi-Bruce will be moderating a session on helping designers to sell - visit www.designleague.org.

Craft Congress is organized by the creators of Handmade Arcade,
(www.handmadearcade.com), Pittsburgh's first indie craft fair, which began in 2003. The
idea grew from the indie craft community that was forming across the country, primarily
via the internet. Countless websites, web stores, blogs and forums connect crafters. These
new crafters are mostly young women, in their 20's and 30's, who delight in combining
retro images with traditional craft techniques to produce practical items with an off-kilter,
humorous streak. There is no right or wrong. If anything, the movement is defined by its
eclecticism.

Knitting with Kool Aid dyed wool is new craft, using cocktail umbrellas to make lamp
shades is new craft, turning album covers into purses is new craft.

Fueled by internet relationships, the number of indie craft fairs across the U.S., has tripled
in recent years. Craft Congress' goal is to strengthen the indie craft community by sharing
ideas, experiences and discussing the future of indie crafting. Portions of the sessions will
be podcast for those who are not able to attend. Participants will discuss best practices
and explore ways to expand their markets, techniques for guerilla marketing, business
challenges, such as "big box" stores' attempts to rip off the diy aesthetic.

A recent survey of 100 indie crafters found that over 25% have recently switched from part
time crafting to full time. Almost 85% report their 2006 sales were up from 2005. They sell
via their own websites, (56%), at fairs (90%) and in brick and mortar stores (47%).

Details
When: Saturday, March 31 and Sunday, April 1, 2007
Where: Spinning Plate, 5720 Friendship Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15206.

#####

First Last City State Country Associate Group
Cristina Espiritu San Pedro CA USA indieentrepreneur.com
Rachel Hospodar San Francisco CA USA pandorastrunk.com
Sherry Huss Occidental CA USA CRAFT magazine & MAKE magazine
Marie Kare Sacramento CA USA www.homeofthesampler.com
Sara Dick Washington DC USA Crafty Bastards Arts and Crafts Fair & Craft Mutiny
Tamara Dourney Fort Pierce FL USA Independent Design and Craft Association /
Craft Revolution / Fort Pierce Craft Mafia
Shannon Mulkey Marietta GA USA Indie Craft Experience / Ice-atlanta.com /
ilovepatina.com
Christy Petterson Atlanta GA USA Indie Craft Experience / Ice-atlanta.com / co-
editor getcrafty.com
Amy Carlton Chicago IL USA DIY Trunk Show
Cinnamon Cooper Chicago IL USA DIY Trunk Show and Chicago Craft Mafia
Autumn Wiggins O'Fallon IL USA Strange Folk Festival
Mallory Whitfield New Orleans LA USA New Orleans Craft Mafia
Benjamin Claassen III Baltimore MD USA Crafty Bastards
Kimberly Dorn Baltimore MD USA Crafty Bastards
Rayne Grace Hoke Hollis Me USA Blissful Revolution Arts and Crafts Bazaar
Lish Dorset Plymouth MI USA Handmade Detroit / Detroit Urban Craft Fair
Stephanie Tardy Pleasant Ridge MI USA Handmade Detroit / Detroit Urban Craft
Fair
Kpoene Kofi-Bruce Brooklyn NY USA Ladies Independent Design League
www.designleague.org
Matthew Stinchcomb Brooklyn NY USA Etsy.com
Sarah Stoudt Brooklyn NY USA New York City Craft Mafia
Olivera Bratich Columbus OH USA Wholly Craft/ Columbus Craft Collective
Jesse Glover Columbus OH USA Craftin' Outlaws
Shannon Okey Cleveland OH USA Cleveland Bazaar Bizarre / anezkahandmade.com /
knit.1 magazine

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View entire thread: Kitsch Culture websites......

Posted by StinkerbelleRock on 2005-03-11 12:58:42      Post Subject: Kitsch Culture websites......

I'm-a-looking for some and am coming up with the oddest results in my google-ing. Does anyone have any reccomendations for any uber-kitschy retro websites? I'm taking up resin casting for jewelry here in May when my restaraunt closes for a month and want some fun and wacky inspiration. Thanks!

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View entire thread: teen bedroom

Posted by marvy on 2004-07-13 11:59:49      Post Subject:

If you're into Retro or eclectic looks, check out the book Pad: The Guide to Ultra-Living by Matt Maranian

I would just suggest going to thrift stores and garage sales for cool old stuff that's not too expensive- I found most of my entire Tiki bar collection in thrift stores, and I don't think I paid more than $5 for any item.

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View entire thread: Favorite Craft Book

Posted by twilight on 2006-07-23 08:14:28      Post Subject:

I definately love Debbie Stoller's Stitch 'n Bitch books.

Retro knitting and crochet books. Also, check your local library for retro books. My library has a bunch of crafty books from the 70s that rock and are fun to check out for new ideas.

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View entire thread: Classic Punch Recipe?

Posted by gingerandlulu on 2005-08-04 21:40:43      Post Subject:

we used to make one with pineapple juice, ginger ale and raspberry sherbet, that seems pretty retro and cheesy now.... (maybe you could update it with a sorbet instead.)

you could also throw some frozen berries in.

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View entire thread: shoe repair and care

Posted by delqc on 2005-11-17 15:40:19      Post Subject:

Usually a repair shop will tell you if the shoes are worth repairing or not ... :)

ETA - and the estimated cost of the repair is a good indication too!!! But hey, for retro shoes that fit perfectly and had senitmental value, that cannot be replaced? I'd pay a mint!

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View entire thread: Needing input severely! :D (complete with pictures booyah)

Posted by annie on 2005-06-01 13:49:18      Post Subject:

I agree that the retro t-shirt bag is your strongest design, because it's unusual. I would pay $30 to $40 for one, but I'm seeing silk-screened canvas totes for $35, so perhaps you would get more for the t-shirt bag.

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View entire thread: Crafty Artist Statements

Posted by the-kitschen on 2005-08-17 10:22:15      Post Subject:

Thanks so much, Kristina, for the thoughtful response.

I took out the art theory bit. You are totally right. After thinking about it, if I am also submitting this statement to curators & juries, it probably isn't a good idea to start belittling their field right off the bat!

Anyway, I did some expanding on things. I think the hardest thing for me to explain is how I envision retro imagry as both nostalgic AND forward looking.

Artists statements are so weird & elusive. I feel like I'm getting closer to the finished product, though.

I'm still looking for examples of awesome artists statements for anyone who has any!

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View entire thread: Help with crochet flowers for barrettes

Posted by princessleia on 2004-10-03 17:54:02      Post Subject:

Oh, by the way, if anyone else is interested in making some of these clips, I found some cool retro buttons at http://www.reprodepot.com/singlebuttons.html.

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View entire thread: Cool recyled accessories..

Posted by Blue&Pink on 2007-01-21 09:31:51      Post Subject:

smart way of designing .. give a tinge of retro feel to it.

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View entire thread: Needing input severely! :D (complete with pictures booyah)

Posted by kissmyknitz on 2005-05-01 17:26:53      Post Subject:

I think $10-$15 is a good price, what I would pay. The bingo bag is my favorite! The green and blue is second... why not make a ton of the bingo bag, make it your "signature" piece, the retro t-bag? I think its your strongest design... and consider your fabric choices, too, some of those are cool looking and fun, but just not right for everyday use, like the first and second... tho both of those DESIGNS are ok.... see where I'm going? It has to be a good design with the right fabrics in order to make a servicable bag people will want to carry. That's why the Bingo bag works... but you didn't ask about that eeep! my love to ya! You will be a sucess if you want to be, so keep pluggin away!

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View entire thread: Those mitts are so cute

Posted by soapandwater on 2004-04-13 17:44:36      Post Subject:

Are Lite Brites not made anymore? Or are they overcharged as being "retro" toys? I loved those things.

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View entire thread: all new designs

Posted by Cindy on 2007-05-03 14:42:27      Post Subject:

Really cool bags and clutches! Your stuff is soooo retro. I love the mod look.

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View entire thread: Free Stationery at 4 square!

Posted by 4square on 2004-12-14 17:56:52      Post Subject: Free Stationery at 4 square!

To celebrate the new version of 4 square and to thank the fine forums at getcrafty, I'm offering free stationery to any getcrafty member that orders from 4 square by December 18th!

You'll receive a limited edition stationery set that cannot be purchased on my website worth $10.00!

*in order to receive the stationery set, get crafty members must e-mail me after ordering --with their paypal e-mail and getcrafty user name.

I have lots of new products and average shipping costs are $1-$3 ...so order today!!

p.s. Please sign my guest comments board too--its lonely!

4square ... modern design | retro prices
http://4square.ipowerhosts.com

thanks!
julie

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View entire thread: macrame cord

Posted by sarabell on 2008-03-21 14:19:24      Post Subject:

the nylon rope was the kind that climbers use so it's much smoother than the stuff that's more like twine that's really rough and pokey like what my dad gets at the harware store though. i'd say it has more of a feel and weight similar to the cotton clothesline AND it comes in fabulous fashion colors! i think it would make some super nifty plant holders that aren't so retro looking.

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View entire thread: Help Me Rediscover my Teenage Bookshelf!

Posted by bloomeenee on 2007-05-19 03:47:02      Post Subject: Help Me Rediscover my Teenage Bookshelf!

Ok... For some reason over the last year I've re-read loads of my favourite books from when I was about 14/15. there is one though, that I can remember loving and remember quite a bit about, but have no clue of author or title... if i tell you what I can remember, will you give me suggestions please?

What I remember:
It dealt with the intense friendship between two girls, one of whom may have been called Chloe or Zoe, but I might be mixing that up with something else. I think it was set in a private school, there were themes of body image, being 'different' and consciously trying not to fit inwith the popular crowd. There was a subplot with one of the girl's parents thinking the girls were a lesbian couple and trying to split them up.

* It felt contemporary at the time i was reading it, although my lack of cultural awareness and love of retro would mean that that was any time between the 70's and the early 90s!
* One character was very arty and there was a plotline with her clipping lots of photos of models from magazines to make a collage. The collage was intended to include all these photos of models, with a single picture of her and the other girl, who would stand out as the most beautiful because they were real.
Also, the mother found the box of clippings, which added to her idea that the friends were a couple
* The way I remember it, I don't think they were a couple, but there maybe was an incident that made them (or at least one of them) question this

Can anybody help?

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View entire thread: vintage sheets

Posted by marisa_u on 2004-06-24 09:44:33      Post Subject:

Garage sales are a good place! Sometimes, you really have to look around, jump from one garage sale to another one. Plus, garage sales are fun, and you never know what you'll find. Try looking in older neighborhoods. Most young people who do garage sales just have baby clothes and toys.

I went this past Saturday, and scored 3 vintage Sears and Roebuck sheets for $5. I still need to work on my bargaining skills ;) I want to say they are around the 70's era? One has light lime green, yellow, and brown stripes. Another has this blue and green wavy type pattern, and the other is just a striped sheet with white background.

Another resource, as mentioned earlier, is Goodwill, Salvation Army, Savers, and any thrift store. I got some retro pillow cases and retro cloth napkins from Savers, and have made 2 skirts out of them!

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View entire thread: san antonio

Posted by PamTheQueen on 2004-12-29 10:24:47      Post Subject:

Ahhh..just Sunday I was eating lunch outside on the Riverwalk at Landry's Seafood (okay food...not really where I would have eaten, but my mom chose it as her birthday lunch.)

It's really crazy there this week with Alamo Bowl people (which is today, I believe?). The two OSU's are playing.

We also visited the Alamo Sunday. Amazing to know that there are still historic tourist sites that are free to visit!

My husband and I went to San Antonio last Tuesday, too. We ate at Rita's on the Riverwalk (pretty good food). We went up in the Tower of the America's which was cool because we could see the layout of SA. We visited La Villita(http://lavillita.com/) just off the Riverwalk.

There are quite a few wonderful art galleries in San Antonio and that is the best place to be inspired. Definetely visit the Southwest Art and Craft Center. Also the San Antonio Museum of Art (http://www.sa-museum.org/).

Broadway going NE of downtown had some interesting looking shops and eatery. A mix of vintage, retro and modern. I wish we had more time to visit there this trip, but it will have to wait until next time.

Here is a link I saved on my Favorites before we left, but then I decided to not bring my own laptop (hubby had his with) and DOH! Didn't have my links: http://www.bestreadguide.com/sanantonio/shopping/

If you have time, visit Gruene and New Brauenfels north on 35 from San Antonio. Wimberley, deeper in Hill Country, has TONS of shops, too(and my mom lives there!).

Have fun! Don't fall in the water!(hehe..my biggest fear after a few margaritas on the Riverwalk...)

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View entire thread: help me reuse this.

Posted by mrs_stroozi on 2007-04-11 11:48:02      Post Subject:

the Pretenders are retro now? i think i have to go lie down with a cool washcloth on my forehead.

The Pretenders are not retro. The Pretenders are CLASSIC. Like the Beatles or the Doors. Or future-classic Beck.

Or hell, like Mozart. You ever hear ANYone call Mozart retro?

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View entire thread: handmade postcards

Posted by april again on 2006-03-25 12:38:08      Post Subject:

Well to be honest I don't and I hadn't even thought of it! But we do have a digital camera but I think maybe I was too shy to post thinking that they were not as good as what I have seen people make. Basically been playing around with pictures and picture effects and paper.

I did find some vintage postcard art that was free to take for the valentines swap and that was fun... I will try to get pictures made and I will post < thanks for suggestion!>

I have found some forums about postcard swapping but I was hoping to get some fresh ideas since I am not very artistic.

Thanks for reply!


**edit: just found a really neat site with FREE clip pictures for scrapbooking etc... link is:

http://scrapability.squarespace.com/vintage-and-retro-images/

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View entire thread: Ready Made magazine

Posted by anthrogirl on 2006-10-10 23:10:47      Post Subject:

Hammer table killed it.

OK I know I'm an old square at the age of 34 with a baby...but I thought, a little kid or even me could really get hurt on those hammer feet! BAD idea.

I have been subscribing since the mag first came out, but I'm thinking of letting it lapse in favor of CRAFT too. I wish CRAFT wasn't so expensive though.
You're an old square? I'm a really old square- I'm 44. And I'm not very interested in items that look like 70's retro- I lived through all that. I happen to like 10's through 40's retro, and genuine Victorian (not that overdone chintz crap that's put in faux-Victorian magazines- think Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, Art Nouveau, and Arts and Crafts Movement). Most of these magazines have very little appeal to me, especially as a person who lives in a studio apartment on a limited budget, but with a taste for antiques.

I looked at the preview of CRAFT. Nice enough, but pricey, and not my kind of thing. Some of the items in ADORN look good, and I like that one of the models was black. Seeing people of color (Asian, black, latino, and every color of the human rainbow; not just 20-something white people) and of different ages and body types in ads, as part of the story illustration, and behind the scenes as writers or editors is very important to me. I don't have the same tastes or body that I did at 20, but Better Homes and Gardens leaves me cold, and always did. I fear that the magazine I really want has not really been invented yet. That said, I will mention CROQ, since I write for it- and I'll look for ADORN. Where can I find it in NYC?

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View entire thread: Site Re-Do- let me know what you think

Posted by girlsavage on 2005-08-12 16:15:19      Post Subject:

Cool Jen! The new stuff looks great up! Jala...peno!:D The "retro" neclace is awesome!

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View entire thread: business card holder- any ideas?

Posted by photogrl on 2005-08-16 16:49:58      Post Subject: business card holder- any ideas?

i never have anything to carry my business cards in (besides my wallet). so i thought i could make something for myself- any ideas???

i also remember seeing a great website for retro light plates and business card holders that were handmade. wondering if anyone knows what i'm talking about...

thanks!

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View entire thread: Going Away CD for Friend...Song Ideas?

Posted by June_Baby12 on 2005-05-29 01:44:00      Post Subject:

YAY! Thanks guys! Im getting a good list now!! Keep them coming!! :) Thanks again! She is going to love it!

*Retro_Turtle13*

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View entire thread: craft accessories

Posted by twilight on 2004-04-18 18:23:55      Post Subject: craft accessories

What craft items can't you live without?

For me, it's wonder weights. They're a bit retro and I don't know if they're made new anymore. They're basically little weights that are plastic coated with felt on the bottom. You lay them on fabric when cutting. No need to pin! I love, love, love them.

I spin and I'm fascinated by my niddy noddy. It's such a simple concept (you just wind yarn around it) but it puts me in such a good mood when I use it.

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View entire thread: any ideas for RAVE TSHIRTS

Posted by sarabell on 2005-05-15 18:21:10      Post Subject:

how funny!

the day before yesterday i was just wearing my first shirt i bought at a thrift shop specifically for my first rave many, many years ago. gosh i feel old. it was just an old red/white/green funky striped fitted t-shirt. but it's cute and i love it still and it brings back happy memories. comfort is key. fun, retro prints are good if you're into that thing. breathable, short sleeved or sleeveless is the way to go. of course, my days of raving are long gone and i don't exactly have my finger on the pulse of the new and hip anymore.... but remember that if you go for black, beware that there are often black lights and all your lint will show!

remember, comfort is key.

carry a little backpack or wear cargo pants so you don't have to worry about keeping track of a purse. and it's always a good thing to find out about the venue - some places will make you toss out your lipstick and anything else that might be used to vandalize their site - or don't bring anything you aren't prepared to toss.

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View entire thread: looking for project inspiration for my clients

Posted by Thrift Shop Romantic on 2007-07-27 13:45:22      Post Subject:

How about those sort of satin or felt retro "mobiles" teenage girls used to hang from their ceilings? They'd be stars or hearts or unicorns or (given it's recent resurgence) Hello Kitty... At least it would be cheerful for them.

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View entire thread: public domain-NEED HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by Dawn32 on 2006-07-23 11:55:57      Post Subject: public domain-NEED HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I know quite a while ago there was a discussion on using pictures on crafts to sell. I'm interested in using retro pinup picks on crafts that I am making but don't want to get in trouble for copyright infringement. Can anyone help and guide me in the right direction?

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View entire thread: don't you wish...

Posted by sun bear on 2004-04-27 11:51:10      Post Subject:

craftychica,
that's not sad, I do that too, I found some things I COULD buy for this past wedding but went with the boring velvet dress. I did jazz it up with a retro pearl pin that my mom designed, so that made me feel cool, plus the fact that it looked kind of like a sunburst/snowflake with pearls at the end and the theme was 'a winter wedding' so i actually matched :)

I was dying to buy a pair of shocking pink armani shoes at tjmaxx but i didn't and then when i got up the gumption to do so, they were gone...sigh

jt

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View entire thread: public domain-NEED HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by rkafka on 2006-08-09 16:06:37      Post Subject: public domain

Not sure if I understand your question entirely, but if you are using legitimate retro images (in other words, images found in mags, etc) in your craft, and not making copies of the images, you are fine. Copyright law generally requires that a copy be made. Cutting and crafting from real sources doesn't make a copy, so it is OK.

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View entire thread: public domain-NEED HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by rkafka on 2006-08-09 16:06:14      Post Subject: public domain

Not sure if I understand your question entirely, but if you are using legitimate retro images (in other words, images found in mags, etc) in your craft, and not making copies of the images, you are fine. Copyright law generally requires that a copy be made. Cutting and crafting from real sources doesn't make a copy, so it is OK.

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View entire thread: It's Friday . . . I wanna hear some GOOD THINGS!

Posted by alterego on 2004-07-23 14:38:51      Post Subject: It's Friday . . . I wanna hear some GOOD THINGS!

I never see this thread here anymore, so I'm forced to start one. Anyway, tell me what you're excited about--weekend plans, good things that have happened this week, things you're looking forward to, and random free-floating happiness. Share away! I'll go first:

-- Well, like I said, it's Friday. That makes me very happy. Cause I hate my job more than ever.
-- I'm gonna buy some yarn this weekend and attempt to knit the bikini from the SNB book. I've been too busy to knit practically since Christmas, and I'm really excited about getting started up again.
-- Two weeks from this weekend, going to Mexico with my bilingual boyfriend. Last weekend we crossed the border and I was left out of every conversation due to the fact that I know no Spanish, but it was great because it's so cute to hear him speak it!
-- I've got some very ripe bananas (they went straight from green to brown without even passing through the yellow stage) that I'm going to bake into banana bread, and for breakfast tomorrow I'm going to treat myself to the vegan french toast that someone posted to Glitter some months back.
-- Maybe buy a couch this weekend, if it hasn't been bought already. It has cute flat arms that will be perfect for propping books and plates of food on. I really never realized how crucial a couch is to the living room arrangement until living 6 months without one.
-- I've just decided to host a cocktail-type party some Friday evening in the near future (after I get a couch--see above). Not "cocktail" in the precious, retro, Frank-Sinatra-on-the-stereo sense, although those do have their place; just in the sense that I will have people in my home for a mini-party between the hours of 5 and 10 featuring drinks, snacks, music, lounging about, and fellowship. I rarely host gatherings, so the thought makes me very happy.
-- I don't have much going on this weekend. And I'm looking forward to that.

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View entire thread: I make skirts

Posted by lizzymahoney on 2004-06-07 07:08:17      Post Subject:

Rach, you really *are* Retro! Back in the early 1970's, we'd buy fabric with prints like your paintings and put them on canvas stretchers for wall art. Could be huge, could be smallish, but often with one motif in monotones.

Marimekko still has fabrics like the ones I remember.

Your skirts are cute, too. I love paisley, always have.

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View entire thread: Retro Camping Projects?

Posted by PamTheQueen on 2004-05-28 08:08:57      Post Subject: Retro Camping Projects?

I'm so excited! This afternoon I pick up a new-to-me '75 Puma pop-up camper! It is in fantastic condition, including the oh-so-very retro blue + green floral print on the cushions. If you've been to Target recently, it matches the retro Summerville print in blue and green flowers. (no link found to pages at Target)

I've been searching for retro camper/campsite decor ideas, but no luck. I want a spiffy campsite --- especially when we camp at those cheesy locations that have contests for campsite setups! hehe

Anyone have any projects or ideas of stuff I can make?

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View entire thread: Trick-or-treat bag ideas

Posted by Selah on 2005-09-20 17:08:14      Post Subject:

I just got a couple of really cool kitchen dishrags from Target, really funky retro print. I'm just going to fold them in half and sew up the sides. Maybe make a handle from some felt or the spare dishrag.

I hope you post what you make, I'd love to see it!

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View entire thread: record storage?

Posted by happyhats on 2006-04-28 08:27:14      Post Subject:

Anyone know of a good place to get a record player? I sooo want one, but I've had no luck at my local thrift stores thus far. Also, what would be a good price? There is a retro, hipper than thouh flea market selling them for about a hundred, but I doubt the quality since this place is overpriced quite often. (As in, an empty bottle of Chambord for eight bucks!). I would obviously make them play it for me first before thinking of buying, but anything else I should look at as well?

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View entire thread: party music suggestions....?

Posted by lalamark on 2004-06-21 02:51:55      Post Subject:

I actually just had this conversation with some friends last week. Depending on what kind of party you're having, we came up with several ideas:

For hanging out, eating fancy crudites off artfully arranged trays, I second the Bebel Gilberto. I have her first album, which always makes me feel very sophisticated and cosmopolitan. It makes good swanky background music. You might also try some cool jazz (not too experimental as that can be quite jarring and dissonent). Right now I'm into late era Poi Dog Pondering.

For more serious part-aying, you can't really go wrong with the Steve Miller Band. I mean, they just rock. Also, Heart's Greatest Hits kicks serious ass and will remind everyone of younger days (though admittedly, everyone tends to remember mythical, very cool versions of themselves as opposed the geeky reality of junior high school).

A professor once told me that Getz/Gilberto "The Girl from Ipanema" is the best make-out album in the world. Anecdotal evidence (and some personal field research) supports this claim. Put this on and you will seal the deal.

I have a mix CD of the best of Belle and Sebastian according to my friend Travis, which also goes over well. Not too intrusive, but quirky and cool.

And while this conversation was going on, we were retro-indie-rocking out to James and the Stone Roses.

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View entire thread: Need Craft Room Organization Ideas...

Posted by becca on 2007-04-30 23:23:05      Post Subject:

Go with a theme that matches your home. My home office is in the den in my home, so I kept a vintage look going to match.

I made my desk out of an old door from my first home and some old piano legs. I use old metal filing cabinets painted retro red underneath.

For verticle storage I add some old door molding with hooks.

I used retro coffee mugs, creamers, and sugar caddys to hold pencils....and other office supplies.

Here is a video of the desk:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/video/10226/spring_decortaing_ideas_how_to_build.html

Here is a video of the retro office storage:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/video/10221/spring_decorating_ideas_flea_market.html

You can see the molding storage on the wall in both videos.


Here I use a vintage cast iron pot as a magazine rack for all my craft magazine:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/video/10215/spring_decorating_ideas_repurpose_a.html

Hope these ideas help! Be sure to give yourself some storage options to toss things in for a quick clean up!

Becca

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View entire thread: Most Expensive Hairdo?!

Posted by PamTheQueen on 2004-06-09 16:56:55      Post Subject: Most Expensive Hairdo?!

Holy Smokes!!!! I just got the most AWESOME hairdo!!! I feel like a new person. My 13 and 12 year old told me I look like a rock star when I walked in the door!!

I tried out this funky looking salon in the Broad Ripple section of Indianapolis (Broad Ripple is kind of like our little SoHo...or something). I knew it looked cool from the outside and I was sooooooo happy when I saw the inside. The name of the salon is Flamingo and sure enough, there are pink flamingos everywhere. Plus super retro stuff and fun, bright colors everywhere!

Carol, the owner, did my hair and I am so happy! She colored, cut and highlighted it and man, I really DO feel like a rock star! (as opposed to a baseball mom of three boys stuck in the suburbs)

The only shocker came when I went to pay. I guess I should ask first before I agree to having that all done. I thought I was just gonna get a haircut. Oops. I also purchased some hair products to do my new style with. Want the bill?

*drum roll*

$168.00 for the hair
$91.00 for the products
$49 tip

HAHAHAHA I am in SOOOOO MUCH TROUBLE! I have never paid that much for a hair do in my life! Or even close. A few $100 with tip bills, but that is it. OMG.

How about you? Do you splurge?

(my middle son is on the telephone with my mom telling her about how I look like a rock star..ROFL)

Purple salon chair http://www.snapnpost.com/queen/photo-large/35875794-4c3e-4639-a1a4-41f94c22f995/

Retro Jane Fonda, Richard Simmons, etc records on the wall http://www.snapnpost.com/queen/photo-large/daadc7d4-7516-4c3b-b712-7d518ac80899/

One of my hair pics (battery died before I could get more up) http://www.snapnpost.com/queen/photo-large/e21f86af-8330-4bbe-8f6d-3cb4881524ce/

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View entire thread: brini maxwell

Posted by tootsiecat on 2006-01-19 08:27:54      Post Subject:

i like brini too. it's certainly different, very campy very retro. i love the sound of her/his voice. i get hypnotised.

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View entire thread: Any ideas on how to decorate around a mauve bathtub

Posted by cackalackie on 2005-10-12 18:29:19      Post Subject:

That is a great link!

My first thought was black and white stripes. A sort of retro look. Or a wallpaper that has mauve and orange flowers with black accents. Again, a sort of mod/retro look.

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View entire thread: Retro fabric

Posted by becca on 2007-04-28 00:16:49      Post Subject: Vintage Purses may be your answer

I like to use retro fabric to make vintage purses.

You can check them out at www.vintagelifestyles.blogspot.com

It is a Simplicity pattern and very easy!!

Becca

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View entire thread: fondue ?

Posted by stephanie455 on 2006-10-12 13:43:44      Post Subject:

i've seen fondue pots on ebay if you want a retro one. but the ones at target look good and are very affordable.

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View entire thread: Share your hair disasters here.

Posted by mishapville on 2004-05-10 12:19:40      Post Subject:

When I was about 13 (in 1985) I decided to give my bangs a trim. I was in the midst of growing out many feathered layers and I decided I wanted a retro sort of look - it worked well and when I pulled my hair back I actually looked pretty good! My mother was furious that I 'ruined' my hair and dragged me off to the neighborhood salon where they admonished me for an hour then 'trimmed' everything, but just in the front! I ended up with a horrific mullet. Thankfully I lived in mullet-central so everyone at school was quite impressed with my new 'do. I hated it though and soon after hacked off the back and ended up ultimately with a simple bob. Unfortunately I had the mullet during both a family reunion and big vacation so there are many many images of me at my awkward adolescent worst with a big poofy mullet.

I once tried one of those home highlighting kits - someone called, I got distracted, and I left it on too long. I ended up with bleachy blotches all over my head. I tried to dye my hair a darker color and ended up with purple blotches. My hair is naturally a dark strawberry blonde - I gave up and went to a salon - they had to dye it dark dark red to cover up the blotches. It looked amazing but faded after 2 weeks, leaving my hair looking like rusty poo.

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View entire thread: best vacation ever?

Posted by lizzymahoney on 2005-12-13 11:33:06      Post Subject:

kindarana, would you do B&Bs? Lots of regions have smallish cities of quaint charms with lovely old homes converted to B&Bs. These might be towns you've already visited.

If you need a major sightseeing attraction that might not be the way to go, though. But it's wonderful to view cities like St Augustine or Key West or Provincetown or Cape May while staying a few days at a B&B. You do have to be ready to adapt a bit if you stay at a B&B.

One place, the owner kept visiting our room every time we left. The fresh towels were nice, but if I left my suitcase propped open, she would close it. Weird. Another, the host assumed my boyfriend wanted a full Irish breakfast and that i would be the tea and toast type. Not so, but she was fine with us switching places. And at another the bed was covered with stuffed animals. Maybe one would be okay, but having five plus all the extra pillows was just annoying.

Some people like exotic locales, but want all the amenities they have at home. Stay at a large hotel chain, and you'll be able to get ESPN and cheeseburgers. Find something not in the AAA travel guide if you like quirky and fun and want to experience the local life as much as possible.

Mom and Pop kind of hotels are always different. Sometimes too different, as in hideous mismatched furnishings, or the dining room doesn't open until 11 AM, or a disturbing lack of privacy. I stayed in one in the Deep South where the swimming pool had pond scum. Really. Sometimes they are really cool, though. As in the maid is the daughter on a break from college, she recommends this retro diner and The Friday Frenzy at the bowling alley, plus you can borrow a cat for your room if you want.

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View entire thread: any nice bikinis for this summer?

Posted by sallysunshine on 2005-06-10 11:54:59      Post Subject:



sallysunshine: congratulations on your first bikini ever, i like the idea of parisian scenes. does it look retro?


It's not so retro. It's the one on the left here.

I think my favorite one was the one on the right here. Unfortunately, they didn't have the top in my size, and I don't think I could pull off the boy shorts. I have short legs to start out with, and boy shorts don't do me any favors.

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View entire thread: Retro fabric

Posted by becca on 2007-04-28 00:14:38      Post Subject:

Hi, I like to make Vintage Purses with my retro fabric.

You can see them at my blog www.vintagelifestyles.blogspot.com

It is a simplicity pattern sold under the Sewing for Dummies name and very easy!

I have never sewn from a pattern before and was able to do it!

Becca

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View entire thread: Retro fabric

Posted by kimt on 2007-04-16 16:46:20      Post Subject: Retro Fabric ideas

Hi CraftyCaro, i am new to this forum and this is my first reply. I also use retro fabric but i do fabric wall hangings. I use artists canvas and stretch fabric over them. They look excellent, have a look at some of mine for some inspiration. Have a great day. from Kimt

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View entire thread: Wanted to buy: Artful Handbag

Posted by Mary Alpher on 2005-07-15 16:35:22      Post Subject: My purses

Hi,
check out my blogspot at http://acornstudio.blogspot.com
After the Victorian Amulet beaded purses that I make are retro 1930's carpet bags that I handmake from my fabric stash of over 30 years. I can make long handles for over the shoulder or have round bamboo rings that can be worn on the shoulder as well. my email is acornstu@aol.com for your response. thanks, mary

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View entire thread: Painting a...stove?

Posted by vratch on 2005-03-31 13:41:03      Post Subject:

I've heard of people successfully painting fridges with special appliance paint but I'm not sure about stoves.

the-kitschen - where did you see the Jenn-Air retro red stove? the only retro stoves I can find online are $4000 - I'd love to find a cheaper one.

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View entire thread: Painting a...stove?

Posted by the-kitschen on 2005-03-30 14:55:16      Post Subject:

I know rustoleum makes appliance paint - they *might* have it in red.

The only thing I would caution though, is to make sure you do a really good job if you are planning to sell your house anytime in the near future. Appliances can really affect the resale value of your home, and some people may really be turned off by an oddly painted stove!

There are companies that make red stoves ... The retro Jenn-Aire model I saw was about $800-900, which is probably the LOW end of a retro-styled stove, unfortunately!

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View entire thread: Painting a...stove?

Posted by titancia on 2005-03-30 03:20:21      Post Subject: Painting a...stove?

To make a long story short, our stove is shot. The oven crapped out like 3 years ago, and now the burners are going. My idea is to buy my mother a stove (well, give her the money for one so she can pick one out) for Mother's Day.
Both of us have been drooling over those awesome retro stoves, and are dying for a red one. Or, at the very least, just a red stove. Of course, they don't sell them. The retro stoves themselves are about $400. Yeeps.
Anyways, my mother had the idea to paint one (well, trim it out in red). Does anyone know of any paint that will not only stick to the stove but can handle the heat as well?

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View entire thread: brini maxwell

Posted by elixirbeth on 2006-01-19 07:03:27      Post Subject:

i love brini! i dont have a tv, but whenever i go to visit my folks, my mother and i watch it together. i love the quirkiness and camp... plus im a huge fan of retro-midcentury kitsch.

I love the time that she redecorated the pay-toilet (in columbus circle, i thnk?) and calculated that it was more affordable to live THERE than in many NYC apartments... come on! thats fucking hilarious!

yeah... i love brini.

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View entire thread: help me reuse this.

Posted by quornflour on 2007-03-29 15:24:17      Post Subject:

Now I understand how my mother felt when the '60s were first declaired "retro."

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View entire thread: help me reuse this.

Posted by Slinkster on 2007-04-10 18:00:45      Post Subject:

Now I understand how my mother felt when the '60s were first declaired "retro."


hahahaha! yep, sigh....

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View entire thread: What did you read in May 2007?

Posted by Vigilantesjustice on 2007-06-04 11:33:12      Post Subject:

Books I read:
Women and Money: Owning the power to control your Destiny by Suze Orman -I love Suze and her no nonsense style, and this book can earn me a hundred bucks. Fo'shizzle!

Give it Up! My Year of Learning to live Better With Less by Mary Carlomagno - I found this dissapointing. It's more personal memoir than big picture. Not what I was looking for.

Retro Housewife: A Salute to the Suburban Superwoman by Kristin Tillotson - Fun drivel with plenty of vintage images and ads.

You Can Do It! The Merit Badge Handbook for Grown-Up Girls by Lauren Catuzzi Grancolas -This book should be owned by everyone born bearing a uterus. I also highly recommend it to people without said organ. I've got 4 badges already, and I'm working on 2 more!

Books I didn't really *read* but used:
The Knitting Answer Book by Margaret Radcliffe
The Embroidery Stitch Bible by Betty Barnden

-Corinne

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View entire thread: brini maxwell

Posted by the-kitschen on 2006-01-19 09:26:43      Post Subject:

I love Brini! I am all about retro-kitsch.

It *is* weird though. The first time I saw it I was like ... "Is this for real? ... Wait ... is that a man?" I'm so amazed that show is on TV. It's really funny and cute, but at the same time, it does bring up some interesting gender role points.

The owner of my dance studio loves my vintage clothes, and she often asks if I watch the show. "Have you seen that show on the Style channel? It's all about the 50s!" and then in a whisper, "I think that might really be a man though. Do you think so?" Heehee she's so cute.

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View entire thread: help me decorate for moms 50th!

Posted by Parrsnip on 2005-11-18 04:51:07      Post Subject: Some Ideas...

What kind of personality does your mom have? Because... she was born in 1955, so that's a veritable hot-house of crazy 50s themed decoration, from naming each table after movie stars or TV shows (Marilyn, Elvis, James Dean) "Yes darling, why don't you join me at the 'I Love Lucy Table?"
Did she have teen idols in the 60s-70s?
Monkees? Beatles? Greg Brady? You could use those, or heads of state, or even famous book titles for your centerpiece decorations or table names.
Centerpieces could have timelines printed with various aspects of your Mom's life/achievements "1963- Wins Poetry Contest" 1975- "Eats entire jar of pickles in one sitting"
I love getting crazy with centerpieces, unorthodox stuff like old cigar boxes and drawers packed with grass and flowers and votives nestled inside. They look retro and well-loved, and they end up being so cheap, people can take them home and then you won't have to deal with them.

If you use fake flowers, spray them gold, and dust them with glitter, since plastic flowers look cheap, kitsch them up so that people know that you know they're cheap! Have FUN with them, get those 99 cent xmas lights and stuff them into the bottom (battery powered, hooray) so that the light hits the glitter, and they also light up the table a little and add some lovely ambience. Target and IKEA both have really great deals on small light sets, I was just there this week.

Do you have older photos of her over the years? I made a compilation of photos of my mom from over the years, from when she was hanging out at the drive-in in bobbysocks, to her "hippie days" to her "powersuit 80s" days.
I put them all together and printed them on a small banner at Kinko's, but you could assemble a smaller compilation and make copies for each table for people to look at and say "Wow, remember that?"

50 is a GOLDEN anniversary, so make sure your "auxiliary colors" exist only to accentuate the main hue.
It takes WORK to get golden!
Fun fact: Your mother is the same age as Disneyland, and they are making special "golden mouse ear" hats right now for their 50th.

My Mom was born in '43, and I found her the LIFE magazine for her birth year and month, she loved it, and so did her friends, they looked at it and yelled things like "Oh wow, remember Burma Shave?" and stuff like that.

If she's wanting a more elegant celebration, you can't beat fresh flowers, and sometimes at the 99 cent store, they have simple glass containers and glass baubles you can put them in... as cheezy as the 99 cent store is, I always go there first, you never know what kind of miraculous deal you might find!
Pillar candles are also quite nice... as long as they aren't too close to decorative foliage. Tapers always make me nervous... so easy to knock over and they burn quickly and require more attention.
Hope some of this helps!

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View entire thread: help me reuse this.

Posted by stella on 2007-03-29 12:08:04      Post Subject:

the Pretenders are retro now? i think i have to go lie down with a cool washcloth on my forehead.

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View entire thread: budget living

Posted by jean on 2004-04-21 10:20:16      Post Subject: budget living

i LOVE budget living. i think it's hip but also retro and cool and i like the ideas, although i wish it was a little more political.

i'm interested to know what others think...

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View entire thread: Amsterdam & Brussles

Posted by rocket helene on 2005-09-30 03:30:19      Post Subject:

anyhoo, someone on OG once mentioned this textile recycling facility where people donate fabrics, yarn, notions, thread, etc. and it is sorted in to basins and sold for dirt cheap (maybe by weight?). i tried searching for it but no luck. does anyone know about this place? i've been to the website and it looks AMAZING.

Hodge, if you could please (s'il te plait) post more informations about this website... I'm really interested and maybe I could help in knowing more about it.

For Morgan and for For Esme now : thrift places are numerous in Brussels. The names are :
Jipex = second hand outlets associated to Oxfam - Les magasins du monde
Terre-iblement mode = second hand outlets associated to Terre
Les Petits Riens, main building (Striking ugly yellow door) : 101 Rue Américaine - 1050 Ixelles
Bagatelle = Boutiques des Petits Riens, rue du Midi 145 – 1000 Bruxelles
Bagatelle = idem, Chaussée de Waterloo 151 in 1060 Saint-Gilles
Other BOUTIQUES DES PETITS RIENS
chaussée d'Ixelles, 353, 1050 Ixelles
Tel : 02.644.04.15
rue Wayez, 100, 1070 Anderlecht
Tel : 02.520.20.55
chaussée de Wavre, 826, 1040 Etterbeek
Tel : 02.647.34.83
chaussée d'Helmet, 148, 1030 Schaerbeek
Tel : 02.248.16.18
rue Marie-Christine,113, 1020 Laeken
Tel : 02.426.85.68
avenue Georges Henri, 228,1200 Woluwe-St-Lambert
Tel : 02.733.37.47
rue DeWand, 134 1020 Laeken
Tel : 02.268.24.99
Opening hours : 10 h 30 à 18 h 00
There is a fabulously inspiring retro boutique in 1050 Brussels, 103 Rue Américaine (everything is colour sorted and stylish, but sometimes in a poor state!) beside the 'Petits Riens' main building, from where it draws its supplies. Both are located in a posh and thriving neighbourhood. The general phone nr for the Petits Riens is : 00 32 (0)2/537.30.26.

Good luck and have a very nice trip!!!

Hélène

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View entire thread: terry cloth/towel wrap

Posted by tosha on 2006-03-04 00:41:43      Post Subject:

What a great idea. I think you could use a towel and maybe add a fabric casing along the top for elastic, or Simplicity has a pattern for something similar. Check out Pattern #4747. Their towel wrap is girly and retro, and the matching headband is soooo much fun!

http://www.simplicity.com/index.cfm?cat=3&type=0&sec=0&id=44&startrow=1

I've been looking for something to make with this pink terrycloth from Denver Fabrics. Maybe a towel wrap?

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b282/sewtosha/21093-300.jpg

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View entire thread: help me reuse this.

Posted by fats on 2007-03-28 16:58:36      Post Subject: help me reuse this.

i have a shirt that i dont like but i love the print on the front (it's a picture of The Pretenders). It's very retro and I love it. I was wondering what are some good ideas to reuse the front of the shirt into something useful that i can use for a long time?

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View entire thread: help me reuse this.

Posted by becca on 2007-05-23 23:34:10      Post Subject: Make a Headboard

Make a retro pop art headboard. Simply scan the front of the t-shirt into your computer and print out on photo transfer paper. Do this many times.

Tranfer to a sturdy fabric like canvas or denim.

Now, cut out squares of MDF, apply foam, stretch your fav tshirt prints on the canvas out over and staple to the back. Repeat on as many squares as you need.

Now, use those flat brackets to attach each square together and use some industrial picture hangin hooks to hang.

This would make a huge statement in a loft or a guest bedroom for guests with great love of music.

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View entire thread: Hello St. Louis!

Posted by calicoon on 2005-08-09 19:45:37      Post Subject:

Yay! Webster Groves is just a hop/skip/jump from where we've been meeting. I know there's a Stitch and Bitch group that meets on Saturday-gonna try to meet up with them this Saturday.

PP-Sewing shops or shopping shops? FiFi's On Grand has moved to Delmar, but she has great rockabilly/retro hipster gear. I can usually be found prowling the aisles of Value Village Thrift Store. I'm way too cheap to spend more than $20 on an item of clothing, but I'm trying to get over it. Ziezo on Delmar has some great stuff and some "heh?" stuff. Very, very desirable jewelery.
What does IL have to offer me? I don't get over there as often as I could.

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View entire thread: Hancock Fabrics Mother's Day Sale

Posted by tiggycat on 2006-05-01 14:47:28      Post Subject:

Yeah, I didn't go overboard ('cause we are soooo poverty-bound right now, though obviously not starving since I drove to Hancock and bought unnecessary pretty stuff), but I bought an awesome pink retro/vintage looking flower print (very 30s) and some yummy warm exotic pink paisley yardage. I'm going to make happy homemaker aprons for me and a few friends! I felt so lively when I walked to my car in the parking lot-- just what I would've normally bought, only so much cheaper!
OK, I also bought some fun ball fringe to go on the end of the apron-- couldn't resist!

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View entire thread: Retro Camping Projects?

Posted by flyingfish on 2004-05-28 21:22:55      Post Subject:

let's see, retro camping.... well you could try to thrift (or antique mall$$$) old coolers they come in those good mints & pinks. table cloths, plastic dish sets, old flashlights, jiffy pop.... a few things that come to mind

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View entire thread: Celebrity Dreams

Posted by PamTheQueen on 2004-06-01 12:21:32      Post Subject:

I've had more than a few dreams about John Mellencamp (hey, don't laugh!). One of the last ones I can remember I was invited to hang out at his new house on the lake. Granted, I have been to his old house before, so the dream wasn't totally far-fetched. Of course, that time, *he* didn't invite me -- I was there with his ex-nanny and only got as far as his garage and gym.

I remembered that dream this past weekend when we took our new-to-us retro pop-up camper to the State Recreation Area on the lake right next door to his house. On Sunday, we were hit with two major storms and I was trying to remember the layout of his land from my dream because I knew his limestone home and outbuildings were MUCH safer than our rockin' pop-up! AH well, didn't matter. We only had time to run for the bathroom/showerhouse when the big one hit. *pout*

I also dreamt that I was hanging out with No Doubt backstage at a concert. Wait! That's tonight! *crossing fingers that Gwen makes my dream come true*

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View entire thread: Kitschy Pampered Chef Party Ideas??? + clip art!

Posted by LuluB on 2007-01-12 11:07:19      Post Subject:

you could really kick it old school and dress and decorate in 50's inspired fabulousness. you could wear a cocktail dress and pearls, an apron, and a beautiful helmet of hair. encourage your guests to dress up too! have a contest for best dress, best hair, best apron! serve mid century inspired appitizers and drinks (i know they did a reprint of the betty crocker cookbook from the 50's, i got mine at barnes & noble but you could probably find some retro recepies online), get a great loungy soundtrack mixed up. . .

heck! if you do this let me know, i might just want to come, i have a partty dress just itching to come out of the closet!

hope this helps start the gears rolling,
erika

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View entire thread: any nice bikinis for this summer?

Posted by paola sangio on 2005-06-10 03:45:27      Post Subject:

tosha: it's super cute!

sallysunshine: congratulations on your first bikini ever, i like the idea of parisian scenes. does it look retro?

parel: what is a tankini?

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View entire thread: becoming an aunt! need ideas/patterns for baby quilts

Posted by Slinkster on 2005-10-18 15:46:47      Post Subject:

Here is an awesome site for retro fabric: http://www.reprodepot.net/fabrics.html

**ETA***it's pretty darned expensive, though.

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View entire thread: What kind of contest could you win, hands down?

Posted by auclaire on 2005-06-17 06:22:48      Post Subject:

**The longest time locked in a daydream...if I don't get rescued, I can sit and stare into space for hours. It's why I took up handcrafting...at least I get something productive done!

**The Greatest Number of journals on the go....idea journals, gratitude journals, dream journals and my favourite...My Pissy, Pissy Mood Journal

**Retro Recipe 'Cookoff'...I'm a sucker for jelly molds, tuna salad sculptures and using olives for decoration, although I hate olives!

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View entire thread: recipe - folder - making

Posted by mindshare on 2005-05-12 12:28:08      Post Subject:

Not so much about the folder but recipe cards: Here's a link to some awesome retro recipe cards that you can print:

http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=29801.0

Also, doing a search for 'recipe cards' on craftster gives you some folder options too.

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View entire thread: Where do you buy your fabric?

Posted by Katrin on 2004-05-29 03:42:33      Post Subject:

My family lives in the Minneapolis area, and every time I go to visit them I make a special trip to S.R. Harris Fabric Outlet. Anyone around there who hasn't been to this place yet—it's amazing. Just a huge warehouse full of all kinds of fabric at incredible discounts. And there's a coupon in the local newspaper every week for 50% off. My favorite thing to search for there is retro-style upholstery barkcloth.

I've gotten some good finds at thrift stores too, just remnants of fabric (and yarn!) or old tablecloths and curtains.

Other than that, I usually hit the clearance racks at JoAnn. I haven't been to Denver Fabrics in years (it's kind of a long drive), but I remember it having a very good, if somewhat pricey, selection.

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View entire thread: Any ideas on how to decorate around a mauve bathtub

Posted by sarabell on 2005-10-12 12:11:59      Post Subject:

i would go to the paint store and grab some swatches to see what matches the tub best and take that swatch with you to the store and find a color that compliments it or just contrasts nicely. i'm really into not matching but having colors that look nice together. you might find something that will really make the mauve look good. for example, i had an unattractve baby poop yellow tub in my previous hell hole. i mean house. and it just looked grungy and yucky until i got some "dusty grape" rugs and towels. then it had a nice look to it and made the old fixtures and general crappiness look intentional and "retro" (for the most part....)

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View entire thread: St. Louis/ Southern Illinois Crafters...

Posted by NovalisStarr on 2006-06-09 12:07:58      Post Subject:

Hey my name is Adrienne and im in Belleville!* Anyway i geuss if im going to represent anything itll be Squibs Retro emporium on west main I sell some of my stuff their now yay TY Dawn and Susan*

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View entire thread: Painting a...stove?

Posted by titancia on 2005-03-31 15:39:06      Post Subject:

v-ratch--Me, too! The cheapest I found start at $4,000. The ones I drool over (www.vintagestoves.com have various prices, some are about $10,000. Yeeks.
I'd love to find the retro one you saw for $900! I searched for hours trying to find one and couldn't.

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View entire thread: old singer sewing machine AND quilting help

Posted by breewell on 2004-09-30 13:37:31      Post Subject: old singer sewing machine AND quilting help

Hi,
I recently got an old singer sewing machine ("born" in october 1919 in NJ). It was only $20 so I figured that if all I could do was look at it lovingly I would be happy. To my surprise, when I got it cleaned and oiled the guy said it ran great! It's one of the ones that would have had a treadle, but now is retro-fitted with a motor.
My problem is that when I learnt to sew in grade 8 home-ec I was taught to start by doing "3 stitch forward, 3 stitch back, continue forward". I don't see a reverse lever on this machine, so, am I supposed to do 3 stitches, turn the work, do 3 more, and then turn the work back, OR is that not the right method for "locking" the stitches at the end of the line and there is a better way? I have been doing simple mending around the house so it hasn't been a problem yet but am starting a quilt and want the easiest method possible!

On to quilting, I have a pattern that I love, but really need a very basic how-to to go over everything from the start, including applique. Any suggestions for books out there? I'm pretty intimidated by the quilting store here in new york, and can't afford a class right now anyway.

Thanks for any help!
Bree

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View entire thread: how did you choose your biz name?

Posted by plainmabel on 2004-11-10 08:41:33      Post Subject:

I was trying to think of something a little 50s/retro for my business name, and something that didn't tie me to a specific business area in case I wanted to change. I also wanted to make sure searching for the name wouldn't bring up a million other unrelated things, that a dot-com was available for it, and that it was memorable and easy to spell. Hence: Plain Mabel

marketa, sounds like you're on the right track, thinking of names early-on and not going with something that pigeonholes you. I like "scattered hatchings"! It definitely has an eclectic/art feel, and barely anything comes up in Google when you search on that term, which is good.

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View entire thread: Scooter!

Posted by laurenbevin on 2005-02-08 15:51:37      Post Subject: Scooter!

I just got an '82 Honda Passport scooter, and I'm super excited about it! It's baby blue and white with a black seat and it's retro-looking without being as round and bubbly as its European counterparts. I have one friend with an '81 passport, but that's it. I might move to SF soon, and I don't know how a scooter would fare over there..... but I know people have them, so it's probably fine. I'm especially looking forward to the 100 mi/gallon part..... Share your scooter love with me!

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View entire thread: valentines day

Posted by cackalackie on 2006-02-14 10:51:23      Post Subject:

I'm planning a nice meal for the family of four - after work. Steak, mashed potatoes, asparagus, with lots of chocolate for desert. I have little silk gift bags for each of them - filled with coversation hearts, gummy hearts, and chocolates. This morning, he gave me a massive Whitmans Sampler (so retro!) and wee ones for each of the girls (like Altoid tins).

Love, baby, that's where it's at.


PS - Someone mentioned a line from a song that someone wrote for them. Our friend mentioned us in song once. Went something like this, "...we think that they're brill....they eat chips til they're ill....." Nice.

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View entire thread: Top Ten Old Movies

Posted by leCandypopRock on 2005-06-21 14:24:48      Post Subject:

ohhh, this is a FUN question for me! i go for more kitschy stuff apparently.

1. VERTIGO or PSYCHO, it's hard to decide which - they are both cinematically amazing.
2. THE WARRIORS - self explanatory.
3. LOVE IN THE AFTERNOON - audrey hepburn perfects the mousy/siren image. it's a bit girl detective and quite comic, adorable!
4. BREATHLESS - jean luc goddard's first film - i had seen many of the anna karena's before this one (which i love all of them especially MY LIFE TO LIVE), but i was shocked this was his first.
5. ROPE - most underrated alfred hitchcock film
6. BARBARELLA - so good it's bad - i love retro futurism, and it got me pretty obsessed with jane fonda.
7. CABARET - bob fosse and liza manelli as an insane flapper + sexual exploration = bad ass musical.
8. THE SOUND OF MUSIC
9. THE NIGHT OF THE IGUANA - one of THE most intense tennessee williams adaptations i've ever seen.
10. WHO'S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF? - it doesn't hurt that richard burton is one of my fav actors, but this is my fav of him and liz - it's beautiful cinema in general, yet so vulgar at times.

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View entire thread: Finding like-minded crafty souls w/out hurting feelings

Posted by PamTheQueen on 2004-05-22 15:00:34      Post Subject: Finding like-minded crafty souls w/out hurting feelings

As i've mentioned before, I seem to have trouble finding like-minded crafty souls. The tastes of the people I most often come in contact with are far from my own. I'm talking about the women who make the same church craft sale stuff my mom and her mom made (and items that aren't retro cool now). Oh, and also throw in the moms in the 'hood who scrapbook, but instead of thinking creatively doing their own thing, all follow scrapbook page recipes (making the same pages as their fellow group members).

My idea is to put up a notice for interest in starting a local group at the local coffee shops, bookstore and library BUT (big BUT) how do I politely keep out those who are not like-minded but want to join everything?

I have certain people in mind who drive me nuts but I am always too nice to be mean. I know they will latch on to any group I try to start just because and then I will end up bitter and ranting on message boards (hehe). I really feel like an awful person for suggesting I want to be picky. I try to be open-minded about most of life, but having already spent time in groups that were a waste and not very creative (See scrapbook mom mention above). I want to see what people make and what their idea about creativity is before I commit to spending time and effort on them.

Geez, I am picky!

My idea is to make up a poster/flyer and list magazines and websites (like this one) I like. If they like them too, they can contact me. Kind of like a personal ad.

Geez, I still sound picky and silly!

I need someone to think logical about this for me. Or tell me how you found crafty people you like. I'm at a loss. The closest I found was the 6th grade daughter of a friend down the street who made a bag out of duct tape after she found a copy of Ready Made. Nobody else in this bedroom 'burb outside of Indianapolis knows what that magazine is! I really don't want to hang out with 6th graders though! :(

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View entire thread: Dream Home + my own shop!

Posted by PamTheQueen on 2005-04-16 09:39:35      Post Subject: Dream Home + my own shop!

Please let me brag:

In a couple of hours, we are signing the papers (and handing over a big chunk of moola) for a big PINK (!!) Queen Anne built in the 1880's. At the beginning of the week I thought getting any large home was going to be impossible since we haven't saved enough for what we wanted to build (and get approved by a mortgage company). Then this opportunity fell in my lap.

How sweet is this:

- located on Main Street next to other big old beautiful homes in registered Historic District

- Just off the beautiful courthouse square of a small Indiana town

- The courthouse square has locally owned cafes, restaurants, boutiques, and an old retro movie theater.

- the house itself is listed on the National Historic Home Register (whatever it is called). There is plaque next to the front door.

- have I mentioned HOW very pink it is? 3 shades!

- it was a B&B and a Tea Room (they hosted a lot of scrapbook retreats and those Red Hat Ladies....)

- almost 5000 square feet !!! 5 bedrooms, 3 full baths, 3 stories, BIG beautiful windows, french doors, big pocket doors, 12 foot ceilings on 1st and 2nd floors, curving staircase, tons of woodwork, wrap around porch (including a swing!), two lots deep with a lot of parking, gardens, and much more!

One of the most exciting features for me is that the part of the inn that was a large two room guest suite opening up the tea room has a separate entrance and can be used as a boutique/shoppe. When they had the tea room, people would just stop in to buy gifts on the way out to the covered bridges. There is still a sign for the B&B/tea room out front that I can change. I am going to pee my pants, I am so excited!!

I was also told that the homeowner next door is a 30-something year old artist who teaches art classes to the town's kids in a studio above her garage. And yoga, too. I cannot wait to make friends!

The downside is that there will be A LOT of work to do. The wallpaper in the main rooms and most bedrooms need to be removed/replaced. Luckily, all the work is just cosmetic and we can live in it while we do it. One room at a time!

We got this at a STEAL. $50K below appraisal. The price would kill those of you who live on the coasts. My little sister lives in a small 1200 sq foot home in Florida that costs more. Gotta love BFI (I=Indiana). We are technically lease/optioning until we sell this current home, but the owners said that as far as they are concerned we are the owners to do as we please as soon as we have the keys May 1.

I am in Big Pink House Heaven!

Sorry for the long brag, but I cannot shut up!

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View entire thread: pumpkin carving ideas needed!

Posted by Guinness on 2004-10-18 15:42:46      Post Subject:

I'm trying to do an Alfred Hitchcock theme this year for pumpkins... A flock of birds on one, the outline of Alfred Hitchcock (from his TV show "Alfred Hitchcock presents") on another, and the outline of Jimmy Stewart from the retro Vertigo poster on another. I'm trying to think of other ideas, too... But it's a start. :)

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View entire thread: having a garage sale

Posted by Sewlittletime on 2005-05-11 20:56:03      Post Subject:

I'd have to second the "Price everything" suggestion. I'll walk away if I don't see prices on stuff, 'cuz if I'm out for the day, hitting a lot of sales, I just don't want to be bothered with waiting to ask the person. One thing I've done is to price things as I box them. that way everything is all ready for when you have your sale and you don't have to spend a whoel night messing around with it. The 3 for 10.00 signs are great for books, music, even clothing. Just makes sure you have a little cheat sheet with you so you remember what you priced stuff for.
Have an idea of how low you are willing to go for certain items, like that cool retro vase, or whatever it is.
One idea I read about, which I thought was really great, was instead of ahnging clothing off a rope, hang stuff off a chain string b/t 2 sturdy objects...and make sure they're attached well so no one gets whacked in the head! The chain won't sag from the weight of the clothing, and it'll keep the hangers from getting tangled.
If the item(s) have been sitting around in your garage/attic/basement, for pete's sake, please clean the dust/dirt/mold, etc. off them, and wash clothing and linens so they don't smell funky!
If you live near a University, old dishes and cookware are GREAT to have on hand for the kids who get to escape dorm living. Same goes for cheap furniture and storage items.
If you have a lot of breakable items, remember to keep newspaper on hand to wrap items for your customers. And of course, this is where you get to get rid of all those plastic shopping bags that tend to multiply like bunnies!

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View entire thread: Old Singer sewing machines

Posted by breewell on 2004-11-08 04:37:03      Post Subject:

I have a singer that was "born" in october of 1919 (you can date and locate the manufacturer of most machines, and find out the exact model if you have the serial number, most machines still have the number since it is on a metal plate that is attached somewhere on the machine, doing this will help you figure out which manual to download from the Singer web page (the old ones are free, newer manuals cost $10 or so).
I also paid $20-30 for my machine, and my feeling was that it was so beautiful I would be happy just to have it on a shelf and gaze at it lovingly. I took it to a professional sewing machine guy (who has experience in old machines) to get it checked out, cleaned and oiled. He said it worked great and so I have been using it. I can only do straight stitch, but that has only annoyed me once. The machine is so wonderful to use, makes a beautiful straight stitch, and I just love daydreaming about all the other women who have used it.
I am so happy with mine, and I do feel that she has made it this far, she's not quitting any time soon.
One word on the price, I have found a number of old singers in that range (and many many others under $100), the problem with Singers is that they were built so well that a lot of them have survived and unless there is something really special about them, it has all of its assorted attachments (or the target market of the antique store is rich people that don't want to do any leg work to find their antiques) they are not worth much money. I think I would pay more for a machine that hasn't been retro-fitted with a motor and still has the treadle. Don't get me wrong, they should be worth a lot, but they're not.

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